If I've done my homework correctly, my '97 doesn't have a cat, it has a soot trap that looks like a cat. Is this right? Before I realized this I was thinking of removing the cat to take some restriction out, but now I'm not sure. Does it make any sense to remove the soot trap?

I want to keep the noise down so I plan to keep the muffler, and I don't want to do anything else that might add resonance or increased noise.

If I understand correctly the "CAT" is actually just a soot trap. I cut mine of and it now runs a lot better. The turbo sounds alot better to. Have not got a fuel milege check since I did it but I expect it to rise.

It is a Catalytic converter as well as a "soot" trap oxidizer. The trapped soot particulate burns off when on the highway & under load.That is based on the proper operation of the OE factory designs. I suspect low speed operation,not getting out on the highway are the normal reasons for pluggage. Also I would think modified or malfunuctioning engine controls play a part in the overall disatisfaction of the TO/Cat. I have one flanged on each end for being able to reverse the exhaust flow. I expirmented with it for some time & could "un clog" the unit by reversing the flow. Here in Ca. we may have Bi annual smog inspection/testing at some point for vehicles under 8200 lb GVW. Numerous Imported light passenger & van vehicles are coming into the USA so not sure if the testing will be necessary on the older population of light duty vehicle by age. If any one has a good take off Ill be glad to take it & pay shipping . Better than throwing it away IMO.Please take a minute to let me know.Thanks

In my observation,see prevous post, they don't get "full". The engine facing end just gets a splattered or a random pattern of pluggage. I was able to clean one up by driving cross country ,2K mi.,unladen but at 70 MPH. I actually dropped the front down at a muffler shop in the midwest for a look see. It was mostly cleaned up after the trip. I was the only driver ,ran70MPH on the cruise & the MPG varied by a few tenths per tank right from the start of trip. I now have a full 3 in. exhaust system - cat on the truck & have no reference road trip since to compare. But I would say on daily driving in urban area it is improved some over stock complete system.I would say local MPG is not as improved as the power improvement is.

i took mine out and went to town on it with a peice of pipe, a crowbar, and hammer. once everything was complately knocked out i put it back on that way when i get it e checked they will think i have one. its been checked twice since it was removed and passed with flying colors.

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